TARTAN TORNADO Josh Taylor is considering a dream partnership with mastermind American trainer Freddie Roach in the USA.
Scotland’s unified IBF and WBA super-lightweight king is in the middle of an ugly break-up with Cyclone Promotions, run by Irish boxing icon Barry McGuigan, that has ended his relationship with respected trainer and Barry’s son Shane.
Josh Taylor could head Stateside for a fresh start after his split from trainer Shane McGuiganCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Taylor has joined management group MTK Global and American promoters Top Rank, to share a stable with superstars like Tyson Fury and Vasiliy Lomachenko.
And he could follow the Gypsy King and Ukrainian pound-for-pound genius by taking his training camps to the US.
Taylor, who beat American Regis Prograis in a fight-of-the-year contender in October to consolidate the belts, has a masterful southpaw style and devastating power that Wild Card boss Roach could expertly harness.
The Los Angeles coach is credited with getting some of the best years out of ferocious punchers like Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto.
And Taylor could secure himself a fresh start in California after a December court case for an altercation with an Edinburgh bouncer threatened to spoil his breakout year.
In May, the Prestonpans hero landed the IBF 10st title by dominating the feared Ivan Baranchyk and five months later he dethroned Prograis at a packed O2 to win the final of the coveted World Boxing Super Series.
Taylor could be about to start a partnership with Freddie RoachCredit: Reuters
Jose Ramirez holds the WBC and WBO crowns that Taylor would need to become the celebrated undisputed ruler of the division and he has been with Top Rank since he turned pro after the 2012 Olympics.
Bob Arum, the veteran fight maker and Top Rank kingpin, is already planning to put his two stars together after Taylor makes his bow under his new banner.
Fight legend Arum said: “Josh Taylor is one of the world’s best fighters, and he is a fight fan’s fighter, a tough guy willing to fight anyone we put in front of him.
“Whether it’s Jose Ramirez in a fight for the undisputed junior welterweight title or any of the welterweights out there, he’s ready for the biggest challenges.”
Josh Taylor (right) has worked with Shane McGuigan since the start of his professional careerCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Shane McGuigan aimed a dig at the 29-year-old on social media
Taylor is currently ticking over at his old Lochend boxing club, in Edinburgh, with trainer Terry McCormack while he plans his next move.
The 16-0 ace – with 12 wins inside the distance – was reluctant to leave Shane McGuigan after they formed a formidable partnership inside and outside of the ropes.
And the 32-year-old Kent-based cornerman was clearly hurt by Taylor’s decision after taking social media to post the phrase: “If you want loyalty, buy a dog”.
Josh Taylor speaks about being inspired to beat Regis Prograis by girlfriend’s late dad
Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
